Astoria, OR — A man died early Tuesday morning after fleeing from police and jumping into the Clackamas River, where he later drowned.
The incident began around 2:09 a.m. on December 10, when Gladstone police responded to a report of an assault at the Holiday Inn Express. According to the Gladstone Police Department, an employee of the hotel told officers that a male suspect had assaulted them while attempting to steal items from the hotel office area.
When police arrived at the scene, the suspect fled on foot. Officers pursued him, but the suspect jumped from a 15-foot bank near the river, temporarily evading their line of sight. Moments later, authorities observed him jumping into the Clackamas River.
In response, the police immediately called in Search and Rescue teams to assist in locating the man. Despite extensive efforts, rescuers were unable to save him. The suspect was later found deceased from an apparent drowning.
The Gladstone Police Department expressed their condolences to those affected by the incident, though they did not release the identity of the deceased or additional details about the events leading up to the tragedy.
“The investigation is ongoing, and we are unable to provide further information at this time,” a police spokesperson said.
This marks the second fatality in the Clackamas River in recent weeks, raising concerns about river safety during the winter months. Authorities are urging the public to exercise caution around waterways, particularly during cold weather when water temperatures are dangerously low.
As the investigation continues, Gladstone police are working to piece together the circumstances surrounding the suspect’s actions. The department has not yet commented on the nature of the alleged assault or whether the man had any prior criminal history.
Local residents expressed shock at the incident, with some noting the danger posed by the river’s swift currents and cold temperatures. “It’s so sad, but the river is really dangerous, especially this time of year,” said one nearby resident. “It’s a reminder of how quickly things can go wrong.”
The incident remains under investigation by the Gladstone Police Department. Authorities have not disclosed the name of the individual involved, pending notification of family members.
